Today, ALPINA, together with BMW, introduces the revised version of its exclusive B7 xDrive sedan. The new 2020 B7 is the 6thgeneration full-size performance-luxury model from ALPINA and the 3rd generation of B7 to be available in the U.S.
Powered by the the latest generation 4.4-liter V8 engine with two, twin-scroll turbochargers, direct injection and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing, the new ALPINA B7 delivers 600 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.
The exhaust side of the turbochargers are equipped with a 54 mm (previously 50 mm) diameter impeller. Additionally, the ALPINA-specific intercoolers feature an interconnection to equalize and reduce pressure pulsations between the two cylinder banks of the V8 engine. This, together with a new engine management software, means that the peak torque of 590 lb-ft is now available from only 2000 rpm all the way up to 5,000 rpm (previously 3,000 – 5,000 rpm).
The new ALPINA B7 now accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds (previously 3.6 seconds) and can reach a maximum speed of 205 mph (previously 194 mph).
The new ALPINA B7 features the latest generation 8-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission from ZF (8HP76) with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC. The transmission software has been thoroughly reworked by ALPINA and adapted specifically to the performance characteristics of the new twin-turbocharged V8.
Close gear ratios and a total spread of 7.81:1 results in high levels of shift comfort and efficiency. In Automatic Mode the combination of eight gears and high engine torque facilitate relaxed cruising at low engine rpm even when travelling at higher speeds. In Sport Mode, the shift times have been improved over the previous generation of B7 and are now considerably quicker
Transmission components such as the torque converter with lock-up clutch and the planetary gear sets are reinforced and along with the inner transmission cooling are designed to cope with the high torque output of the twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This means that no torque reduction is necessary during upshifts.
The stainless steel ALPINA sports exhaust system is responsible for a reduction in both back pressure and weight. Active exhaust valves allow the driver to change the sound experience by using the Driving Experience Control switch to select between Comfort and Sport Mode. In typical ALPINA fashion: the two twin tailpipes of the exhaust system are integrated elegantly into the rear bumper.
The new ALPINA B7 combines the latest suspension technology by usingthe standard two-axle air suspension system combined with Dynamic Damper Control and Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview. Active Comfort Drive with Road Preview also includes an anticipatory chassis control function. The advance information for controlling the combination of chassis systems is learned from driving style analysis readings, data from the navigation system and a stereo camera, and significantly increases ride comfort and active safety.
The two-axle air suspension system with auto-levelling function also enables the ride height to be adjusted by a total of 1.4”. At speeds above 140 mph or when selecting Sport+ Mode the new ALPINA B7 automatically reduces its ride height by 0.6” for a lower center-of-gravity and improved handling. When needed, the ride height can also be raised by 0.8” up to a speed of 20 mph to increase ground clearance.
The settings of the Electronic Damper Control, which influences both rebound and compression, can be selected using the Driving Experience Control switch. A broad range of ALPINA damper set-ups are available ranging from Comfort+ Mode for effortless and relaxed cruising to ALPINA Sport+ Mode for maximum dynamic performance.
The new ALPINA B7 is fitted with MICHELIN® performance tires measuring 255/40 ZR20 at the front and 295/35 ZR20 at the rear, mounted on 8.5 x 20” and 10 x 20” ALPINA CLASSIC wheels. Optional 21” ALPINA CLASSIC wheels feature a super-minimalistic design – high-density and high-strength aluminium as a result of forging leads to a weight saving of more than 20% of unsprung mass per wheel.
For those customers who desire it, 20” all-season tires are available as a no-cost option.
A revised brake system, now utilizing brake-by-wire technology, combines powerful stopping power with consistent brake pedal feedback. On the front axle, 4-piston fixed calipers are paired with 15.55 x 1.42 inch discs. On the rear axle, floating calipers are now paired with larger 15.67 x 1.10 inch discs.
Exterior Design.
Just like the 7 Series Facelift, the BMW kidney grill has grown in size and together with new slim headlights makes up the polarizing front end appearance. A new front bumper with functional air intakes, free-floating ALPINA lettering and horizontal character lines works in conjunction with the rear spoiler in order to effectively reduce lift to almost zero at the front and rear axle for excellent high-speed stability.
The exclusive paint finishes in ALPINA Blue metallic and ALPINA Green metallic are hallmark feature reserved solely for BMW ALPINA automobiles. A wide range of other BMW and BMW Individual paint finishes are also available.
Interior Design and Equipment.
Nappa leather, multifunctional comfort seats, leather instrument panel, ceramic inserts on control elements and soft close doors come as standard. Features such as a full-color head-up display, a rear view camera, and the latest BMW iDrive 7 navigation and communication systems help support effortless driving.
Subtle ALPINA detailing ads exclusivity and individual style to the new ALPINA B7’s interior. Hand-finished using exceptionally high-quality LAVALINA leather, the sports steering wheel with blue and green stitching is captivating at the very first touch due to its luxurious feel.
Contemporary Piano lacquer or classic Myrtle Luxury Wood interior trim, door sills with blue illumination, ALPINA B7 model inscriptions and an individual production plaque are examples of exclusive equipment features.
The advanced full-color digital instrument display features a new ALPINA design with a classic or dynamic visualisation depending on the selected driving mode. It is networked to the latest connectivity and communication functions.
A series of refinements serve to enhance the acoustic comfort aboard the new ALPINA B7. The level of tire noise reaching the rear compartment of the exclusive performance-luxury sedans has been reduced by new shielding in the rear wheel arches. A further reduction in the interior noise level is attained through enhanced sound insulation elements in the B-pillar area, the seatbelt outlet covers and the rear seat backrest. Laminated glass with an increased thickness of 0.2 inches is now used not only for the windscreen, but also for the side windows and rear window.
The 2020 ALPINA B7 features the Back-Up Assistant, which helps the driver to exit parking spots or maneuver when space is limited. This is done by storing the steering movements made during the vehicle’s last forward maneuver when traveling at speeds up to 22 mph. The system is then able to steer the vehicle for distances of up to 50 yards along exactly the same line it took when moving forward. All the driver has to do is operate the accelerator and brake pedals and monitor the vehicle’s surroundings.
Standard on the new ALPINA B7 is the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, an intelligent, digital helper which responds to the prompt “Hey BMW” and is an intrinsic element of the iDrive 7 operating system.
The market launch is scheduled for Q3 2019. MSRP is set at $141,700 plus $995 Destination.
